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Home Asbestos Prevention, Tips and Healthy Alte...

Asbestos Prevention, Tips and Healthy Alternatives for Homeowners

There are many things to consider when remodeling, purchasing or receiving a home mortgage loan. When receiving a mortgage, it is the transfer of an interest in property to a lender as security for a debt. Many new responsibilities will need to be undertaken at this time. Having the assistance of a professional mortgage loan consultant and real estate agent can make all the difference in the world. The road to owning a home is a wonderful experience, but one that requires new responsibilities. Homes that are newly purchased may require additional remodeling or repairs.

asbestos home illustration

In many cases, obsolete building materials may still be present which can pose several risks. Since the late 1800's until the early 1980's, asbestos was regarded as the ideal method of insulation and piping in industrial applications throughout the world. Highly sought after throughout the 20th century, asbestos gained heavy use due to its fire, heat and weather resistant qualities.

Located in the Southwestern part of the United States, California is known for its beautiful weather, gorgeous scenery, arts, culture, entertainment industry and tourism. The state of California provides a great environment for active lifestyles and is regarded as one of the top states to call home.

Although asbestos exposure does not always pose health risks, it is still highly recommended that homebuyers determine if asbestos containing building materials are present. Exposure to asbestos is easily avoidable by taking simple precautions. The state is also leading the way towards a green paradigm, featuring eco-sustainable methods of construction and living. Many of these healthy insulation options are available for home use. Not only do these materials replace the need for hazardous materials, they can even reduce annual energy costs.

The long term inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers can cause a rare, but severe lung ailment known as mesothelioma. Manufacturers of asbestos were aware of its toxic qualities, but repressed any evidence that demonstrated that. Due to the fact many mesothelioma symptoms are similar to less serious ailments, mesothelioma diagnosis is one of the more difficult tasks physicians encounter. There are a number of factors that can impact mesothelioma survival rate. These factors include latency period, age of diagnosis and cigarette smoking.

Implementing and enforcing the state's environmental protection laws, The California Environmental Protection Agency ensures clean water, air, soil and waste recycling is performed throughout the state. This agency is at the forefront of science and research to lead to a cleaner, healthier planet for all. With a variety of home materials on the market still not banned b the federal government, there has been an overwhelming amount of concerned citizens regarding asbestos exposure.

With increasing technology and public initiatives, green alternatives exist which allow for an asbestos free environment. These healthy insulation alternatives include cotton fiber, lcynene and cellulose. According to studies performed by manufacturers, the use of cotton fiber can reduce annual energy costs by 25 percent! These options will provide a safe and healthy home, free of any damaging materials.

Recently, congress passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act into law. Included in this act were extensions to the tax incentives placed for energy efficiency in 2005, as well as new credits for homeowners who remodel or build using eco-sustainable methods. Some of the measures that are eligible for tax credits include added insulation to walls, ceilings, or other part of the building envelope that meets the 2009 IECC specifications, sealing cracks in the building shell and ducts to reduce heat loss. Storm doors paired with U-factored rated wood doors are also eligible.

Special thanks to Jesse Herman and Paul James from the Mesothelioma Cancer Center for their assistance with this blog post.

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Joey Aszterbaum is the Hemet Home Loan Guy and a member of the Active Rain social network of real estate professionals. Patrion Mortgage is a direct lender and a division of Altura Credit Union (formerly Riverside County's Credit Union). To buy or refinance real estate in Hemet, Riverside County, California visit www.HemetHomeLoans.com or call 951.571.5751

Posted Tuesday May 05